Google has removed dozens of apps from the Google Play store after discovering a software element that allows it to secretly collect user data. The newspaper writes about it Wall Street Journal.
According to the publication, the Panama-based Measurement Systems S. de RL, which wrote the code, is affiliated with a Virginia-based defense contractor engaged in cyber intelligence, network defense and intelligence response for US national security agencies. Researchers found that with the help of apps, the Panamanian company was able to secretly collect user data.
The exclusive code has been found in several Muslim prayer apps and QR code readers with more than 10 million downloads, among other things.
Previously, the AndroidAuthority portal with links to data from the information security company Kryptowire knowledgeableMany Samsung smartphones have a dangerous vulnerability that allows hackers to take control of the device. The discovered vulnerability allows hackers to make phone calls, control apps, reset device settings and access user data. The company released a fix in February 2022.
Prior to that, researchers from the Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh discoveredThe GPU in Android smartphones can be used to steal user data. The researchers focused on the Qualcomm Adreno video chip, but it is assumed that this vulnerability could also be exploited in other GPUs. The team reported the breach to Google and Qualcomm. Google has noted that they will release a security patch for Android later this year.